Japanese sedge and Morrow’s sedge are often considered for the same spot in the garden (ground cover, container). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Carex oshimensis 45 cm × 45 cm after 10 years
A low evergreen sedge with arching leaves, sold almost only in yellow or cream striped forms. It suits the edge of a part-shaded bed, the ground under…
Carex morrowii 40 cm × 50 cm after 10 years
An evergreen sedge that forms dense, arching, grass-like clumps, grown mostly as cultivars with white or cream leaf margins. Use it under trees and…
Japanese sedge grows larger: 45 cm × 45 cm after ten years, against 40 cm × 50 cm for Morrow’s sedge.
Morrow’s sedge tolerates drought better than Japanese sedge.
Morrow’s sedge also grows in shade, Japanese sedge does not.
|
Feature
|
Japanese sedge
|
Morrow’s sedge
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Ornamental grass | Ornamental grass |
| Size after 10 years | 45 cm × 45 cm | 40 cm × 50 cm |
| Ultimate size | 25–45 cm × 30–45 cm | 30–45 cm × 30–60 cm |
| Growth rate | Medium | Slow |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Part shade, Shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic | Average garden soil, Clay, Acidic |
| Hardiness | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Evergreen | Evergreen |
| Flowering | May–June | April–July, green |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Low | Medium |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Planting distance | 35 cm | 35 cm |
| Typical price | approx. €4.90 | approx. €4.90 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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